How to Bathe a Russian Tortoise [2022 Step-by-Step Instructions Guide]

If you’ve been thinking about getting a Russian Tortoise or you are already a proud Russian Tortoise owner, it is important that you know how to bathe them to that they can remain happy and healthy.

Russian tortoises (otherwise known as Central Asian tortoises, Horsfield’s tortoises, or Steppe tortoises) are enjoying growing popularity as pets due to their compact size — typically no more than 8 to 10 inches in length from end to end — and hardiness. Although, in the wild, Russian tortoises live in relatively dry regions of the Mediterranean, Africa, and Middle East, their underground burrows are generally more humid than what indoor, human-made habitats offer. Dirt and dead cells can also build up on the shell, clogging the pores. Experts recommend bathing Russian tortoises at least weekly and as frequently as once a day, to keep the skin and shell clean and hydrated. Contact with water also prompts the water-conserving desert tortoise to excrete waste and drink water more regularly.

Continue reading to learn more about bathing your Russian Tortoise.

Instructions

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Bath time can be both healthy and relaxing for the Russian tortoise. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to bathe your tortoise:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. You should always wash your hands before and after handling the tortoise, to avoid spreading parasites and disease.

wash hands before bathing Russian tortoise

2. Fill a shallow pan or tray with clean, warm water. The water level should approximately reach the bottom of the tortoise’s shell. Do not add cleaning products to the water. Avoid leaving your tortoise unattended in the water because your tortoise should be supervised (especially if the water level is ever above his/her head).

3. Place your tortoise in the pan. This is a good time to check for mites, injuries, and other external problems.

put your Russian tortoise in the water

4. Allow your tortoise to soak and become used to the water. Do not hold the tortoise down by force. Use a container that is porcelain or other opaque materials, to discourage the tortoise from trying to climb out.

soak your Russian tortoise in the water

5. Using a separate container of warm water, gently trickle water through your hands onto the tortoise’s shell. Let the water moisten the tortoise’s head, shell, and body.

pour water on your Russian tortoises back

6. If there is dirt or other buildup on the shell, clean it with water and a soft-bristled brush.

clean Russian tortoises shell with brush & water

7. Once the tortoise is clean and has soaked for about 30 minutes, you can dry off the shell, head, and limbs thoroughly with paper towels.

dry off your Russian tortoise with paper towels

8. Discard the paper towels immediately to prevent the spread of disease.

9. Place the tortoise back into the enclosure when dry. Do not apply anything to the shell.

put your Russian tortoise back in his pen after the bath

10. Sanitize your hands with soap and warm water.

wash hands before bathing Russian tortoise

DOWNLOAD THE FREE GUIDE:

"RUSSIAN CARE CHEAT SHEET"

WORKS FOR ANY RUSSIAN | 100% FREE

Conclusion

In addition to regular bathing, your Russian tortoise might also enjoy access to a shallow pan of clean, warm water for soaking three or four times per week. The water should be changed often rather than left standing, to prevent bacterial growth. Even if there is a soaking pan available, however, experts report that it is still important to bathe the tortoise by hand. For young, growing tortoises, frequent bathing is even more vital to their health, as they are not yet able to retain water efficiently. With proper cleaning and care, these little desert tortoises will happily live in your home and garden for decades to come.